sabfish

I have a Fuji X-T30. I would like to be able to take macro's using my 18-55 Fuji Lens. I have never used extension tubes or close up lenses with any of my cameras interchangeable lens cameras (in the past, Nikon SLR or DSLR). I am able to take fairly good close ups with my Sony rx100 m3.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated on extension tubes v. close up lenses. Also advice on Fuji extension tubes/lenses v. generic brands

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

Duplicate post, but different forum... I responded in the other forum...

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Close up lenses are more user friendly and no light loss - but GOOD quality ones are a must. 2-element ones are best.

Tubes have light loss and connection/function issues and not user friendly. Good quality connection/functions are a must.

Either of these will only allow a small focusing distance range. A "macro" lens will still allow full range focusing to infinity.
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fetzler Loc: North West PA

The normal close up lenses are optically terrible. Raynox lenses can be used but they are fairly expensive. I use these with a macro lens for magnification > 1:1

Extension tubes work well but are not as flexible as a macro lens. Buy some extension tubes and stay away from close up lenses.

Mark Sturtevant Loc: Grand Blanc, MI

Raynox lenses are the best ones I know for quickly modifying your lens for close up photography. Just clamp it on, take a picture of that bee or small flower, then unclamp it and put it away in a small micro-fiber coin purse like this: https://www.amazon.com/FurArt-Genuine-Leather-Change-Zipper/dp/B07D3R5JQD/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=coin+purse&qid=1587419275&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyUVNHSkFOU1pBM0VRJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjM5MDAwM1ZHTkpBMFc2QUZHNiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNTgyMjc5MlZNTFhYQUIxNElYMiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=. You can get this in most any department store or drug store. I consider the cost of a Raynox lens to be comparable to decent extension tubes. There are tubes that cost more.
Extension tubes do not add glass but they are more fussy to put on and take off. You have to be extra careful doing that outdoors.
If you upgrade to a true macro lens, both of these options will still be there to be used with it. I prefer the Raynox lens for its convenience.

imagemeister Loc: mid east Florida

Look for the CANON 500D and 250D close up lenses
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Harvey Loc: Pioneer, CA

I think I have one of these at the bottom of my "GAS" box - As I have lots of spare time today - LOL - I think I'll dust it off a shoot a few test shots on my macro ruler I have permanently set up on my back deck.